Narrative Recording for Collecting Data on a Child

Collecting data on a child involves observing a child and using a method to gather evidence that can help identify and understand the behavior of a child. A commonly used method of recording data on a student is called narrative recording.Narrative data should include:

What the teachers are doing.

What the students are doing.

How the students are participating

(engagement level) in the class discussion/activity.

How the students are interacting with one another.

Details of the events in chronological order. Below are advantages and disadvantages for using this particular method of observing children:

Advantages
Narrative recording involves providing an ongoing description of the events that take place during an observation as they occur in real time. It is not limited to a particular incident, but rather encompasses all events taking place in a given time frame. It focuses on behaviors of all students, as opposed to a particular behavior of one child. A narrative observation includes recording details in a sequential manner that helps the observer better understand not only what behaviors took place but also the context in which the behavior occurred. This can be used as evidence to support claims you make and to provide suggestions when you talk with the teacher after the observation. Accurately written notes in chronological order, along with specific examples about the student’s behavior, can be used to discuss appropriate strategies or techniques that can be used as part a behavior intervention plan and increase a child’s attention, time­ on-task, and overall learning in the classroom.

Douglas Haddad is an award-winning middle school teacher, best-selling author, and parenting and education expert. He has been awarded “Teacher of the Year” in his Connecticut school district, as well as a Teacher-Ambassador in Public Education in the State of Connecticut. He is the best-selling author of The Ultimate Guide to Raising Teens and Tweens: Strategies for Unlocking Your Child’s Full Potential.
Douglas has been featured as a regular guest expert on FOX, NBC, ABC, and ION television. He graduated magna cum laude from Central Connecticut State University with a bachelor’s degree in biology/secondary education and a master’s degree in biology. Furthermore, he graduated summa cum laude from the University of Bridgeport with a second master’s degree in human nutrition and was inducted into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi as a lifetime member.
Douglas is also a blogger, contributing writer, and has been featured in many national print and online outlets. In addition to his work as an author, educator and wellness expert, Douglas Haddad is a modern-day Renaissance man who has also been on stage singing, playing piano, writing music, performing voiceovers for various companies and products, and acting in theatrical performances, film, television, and commercials over the years.